Volvo tests sensor system that detects distracted drivers

Volvo is developing a detection system that could automatically take over the vehicle’s controls when it senses the driver is distracted, tired or asleep.

It uses a dashboard-mounted sensor that captures information from infrared light projected onto the driver’s face.

Although invisible to the human eye, the infrared light helps the sensor detect things such as whether eyes are open or closed, the position of the driver’s head and whether he or she is looking straight ahead, down at dashboard controls or out of one of the side windows.

“Since the car is able to detect if a driver is not paying attention, safety systems can be adapted more effectively. For example, the car’s support systems can be activated later on if the driver is focused, and earlier if the driver’s attention is directed elsewhere,” explains Per Landfors, engineer at Volvo Cars and project leader for driver support functions.

Advertisement

The technology is already being used in Volvo test vehicles and can be integrated into a number of the company’s existing active safety systems, including those focused on keeping a car in a lane, its adaptive cruise control and its collision warning and automatic braking systems.

However, that’s just the start. Being able to track the driver’s head position could enhance accessibility features: for example, automatically raising or lowering the driver’s seat, steering wheel, plus wing and rear-view mirrors so that they are in the best possible positions.

Interior and exterior lighting could also respond to where the driver is looking at a particular moment. “This could be done by the sensor measuring between different points on the face to identify the driver, for example. At the same time, however, it is essential to remember than the car doesn’t save any pictures and nor does it have a driver surveillance function,” Per Landfors clarifies.

Volvo is one of several automotive companies attempting to be an autonomous driving technology pioneer and this technology would also help bring self-driving features to production cars rapidly.

Initial autonomous cars will not be fully autonomous and will require an alert driver, ready to step in when road conditions become too challenging, or when there is a problem with self-driving sensors, for example. This system could be used to identify if the driver is in a position to take over driving duties or whether the car would have to stop.

Currently being developed in partnership with Chalmers University of Technology, PSA Peugeot Citroen is creating an emotional recognition system with the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne that will be able to identify road rage, anger and other forms of driver frustration.